On-demand and just-in-time customer fulfillment by an automated convenience store system and method

Abstract

An automated convenience store system built as a standing unit within a modified industrial storage unit. The storage unit container machinery, electronics, access ports and hatches, power generation and distribution components to effectuate the preparation, packaging and delivery of selected goods to a patron. The automated convenience store system employing a process of selecting the item of interest, preparing it for delivery or pick up. The convenience stores system can also operate as a location of depositing objects such as recyclables, expired medications and the like. The convenience sore system also employing a drink dispensing system with a specialized cup designed to prevent spills and tampering. The convenience store system is also capable of communicating with robotic unit or drone units to effectuate delivery of items.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . A convenience store system automated to select, package and dispense objects comprising:
 a storage container modified to house machinery, electronics, access ports and hatches, power distribution and generation components;   the storage container is also designed to either dispense objects such as groceries, drinks, lottery tickets, currency or its equivalent, medication and food items or to receive objects such as recyclables, medication, currency or its equivalent;   the machinery incorporates conveyor belts, robotic arms, pneumatic manipulators, an shelf lifts to process delivery of objects contained within the storage container; and   the storage container can also contain a liquid dispensing apparatus incorporating pumps, reservoirs, mixers, injection nozzles and cup lid sealers.   
     
     
         2 . A method of operating an automated object selection, packaging and dispensing system comprising the steps of:
 inputting user selected items for delivery by a patron or its agent;   authenticating the user's information and processing the transaction;   the system initiating multiple subroutines for selecting the relevant item, packing the item and preparing it for pickup or delivery;   dispensing the relevant items at a pick-up location and/or to robotic unit or drone unit designated areas; and   alerting the user that the ordered items are ready to be picked up or are en-route to be delivered;   
     
     
         3 . A hermetically sealed cup comprising;
 a semi-conical cup with double walled construction for keeping dispensed liquids in a state of steady temperature;   the semi-conical cup is sealed at the top with a membrane that has perforated section for allowing the liquid to be sipped from once the perforated section is opened; and   the membrane is capable of being punctured by a nozzle injection system for dispensing drinks within the semi-conical cup.